Beam shaping optics are designed to transform input intensity distributions into desired output shapes. Typically, the input beam is simpler and cheaper to generate (e.g., a Gaussian beam), while the output distribution is more complex, such as a Top Hat (flat top) profile, commonly used in applications like laser cutting and patterning.
In this system, we aim to convert a Gaussian beam with a waist WW into a uniform Top Hat beam with a radius KK. The input beam has Gaussian irradiance, while the output irradiance distribution should ideally be uniform, as shown below.
Below shows the output beam and diagraph
Notice that the input ray apodization is Gaussian but the output is uniform. The spacing between the rays at the image surface is very uniform indicating that the irradiance distribution should be close to ideal Top Hat.
Analysis of results with Geometric Image Analysis
For other values of input waist W and output radius K, you can change the corresponding variable values in the macro.
Reference
- https://my.zemax.com/en-US/Knowledge-Base/kb-article/?ka=KA-01672
- Design Reference Download: Laser beam topflat design